Toilet with Microfluidic Chips for Testing Samples

ABSTRACT

An analytical toilet comprising a bowl adapted to receive excreta; one or more conduits for transporting a sample from the bowl; one or more fluid sources in fluid connection with the one or more conduits; and one or more microfluidic chips, comprising at least one fluid inlet; at least one fluid outlet; and a sensor configured to detect at least one property of an excreta sample is disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNos. 62/862,610 titled “Toilet Providing Infrastructure for MultipleHealth Analysis Tools” filed on Jun. 17, 2019; 62/888,700 titled “Plugand Play Platform for Analyzing Biological Samples” filed on Jun. 17,2019; 62/888,972 titled “Toilet with Digitally Controlled Manifold toDistribute Water, Air and Excreta” filed on Aug. 28, 2019; 62/912,429titled “Toilet with Microfluidic Chips for Testing Samples” filed onOct. 8, 2019; 62/979,803 titled “Analytical Toilet for AssessingAnalytes in Excreta” filed Feb. 21, 2020; and 62/981,470 titled“Analytical Toilet for Assessing Analytes in Excreta” filed on Feb. 25,2020, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to analytical toilets. More particularly,it relates to analytical toilets equipped to provide health informationto the user.

BACKGROUND

The ability to track an individual's health and wellness is currentlylimited to the lack of available data related to personal health. Manydiagnostic tools are based on examination and testing of excreta, butthe high cost of frequent doctor's visits and/or scans make theseoptions available only on a very limited and infrequent basis. Thus,they are not widely available to people interested in tracking their ownpersonal wellbeing.

Toilets present a fertile environment for locating a variety of usefulsensors to detect, analyze, and track trends for multiple healthconditions. Locating sensors in such a location allows for passiveobservation and tracking on a regular basis of daily visits without thenecessity of visiting a medical clinic for collection of samples anddata. Monitoring trends over time of health conditions supportscontinual wellness monitoring and maintenance rather than waiting forsymptoms to appear and become severe enough to motivate a person to seekcare. At that point, preventative care may be eliminated as an optionleaving only more intrusive and potentially less effective curativetreatments. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Smart toilets have been developed that provide health and wellness datafor a user by analyzing various properties of samples of excreta bymultiple sensors. Adding new or updated sensors to a medical device canbe difficult if the geometry or connection scheme are incompatible witha previous interface.

Microfluidics offer the benefits of testing samples using smallervolumes and reduced costs associated with reduced material usage andreduced pumping needs. However, microfluidics also requires a supportstructure to deliver and extract samples that is very preciselydesigned, manufactured, and fitted.

Just a few examples of smart toilets and other bathroom devices can beseen in the following U.S. Patents and Published Applications: U.S. Pat.No. 9,867,513, entitled “Medical Toilet With User Authentication”; U.S.Pat. No. 10,123,784, entitled “In Situ Specimen Collection Receptacle ina Toilet and Being in Communication with a Spectral Analyzer”; U.S. Pat.No. 10,273,674, entitled “Toilet Bowl for Separating Fecal Matter andUrine for Collection And Analysis”; US 2016/0000378, entitled “HumanHealth Property Monitoring System”; US 2018/0020984, entitled “Method ofMonitoring Health While Using a Toilet”; US 2018/0055488, entitled“Toilet Volatile Organic Compound Analysis System for Urine”; US2018/0078191, entitled “Medical Toilet for Collecting and AnalyzingMultiple Metrics”; US 2018/0140284, entitled “Medical Toilet with UserCustomized Health Metric Validation System”; US 2018/0165417, entitled“Bathroom Telemedicine Station.” The disclosures of all these patentsand applications are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect, the disclosure provides an analytical toiletcomprising a bowl adapted to receive excreta; one or more conduits fortransporting a sample from the bowl; one or more fluid sources in fluidconnection with the one or more conduits; and one or more microfluidicchips, comprising at least one fluid inlet; at least one fluid outlet;and a sensor configured to detect at least one property of an excretasample.

Further aspects and embodiments are provided in the foregoing drawings,detailed description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings are provided to illustrate certain embodimentsdescribed herein. The drawings are merely illustrative and are notintended to limit the scope of claimed inventions and are not intendedto show every potential feature or embodiment of the claimed inventions.The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale; in some instances,certain elements of the drawing may be enlarged with respect to otherelements of the drawing for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of ananalytical toilet according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with the rearcompartment open.

FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the toilet of FIG. 1 with a sidepanel removed to show the interior of the toilet.

FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of the manifold of the toilet of FIG.1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of ananalytical test device attached to a medical toilet according to thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of an analyticaltest device according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a health andwellness analytical test device according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of amicrofluidic lab on chip fluid interface.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of anoptical interface for a microfluidic system, in lateral configuration.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of aninterface including of a set of electrical contacts.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of analternate configuration for a larger chip with additional standardizedareas designated for fluidic, electrical or optical interconnects.

FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view of a powered quick disconnect fora toilet seat according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description recites various aspects and embodiments of theinventions disclosed herein. No particular embodiment is intended todefine the scope of the invention. Rather, the embodiments providenon-limiting examples of various compositions, and methods that areincluded within the scope of the claimed inventions. The description isto be read from the perspective of one of ordinary skill in the art.Therefore, information that is well known to the ordinarily skilledartisan is not necessarily included.

Definitions

The following terms and phrases have the meanings indicated below,unless otherwise provided herein. This disclosure may employ other termsand phrases not expressly defined herein. Such other terms and phrasesshall have the meanings that they would possess within the context ofthis disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. In someinstances, a term or phrase may be defined in the singular or plural. Insuch instances, it is understood that any term in the singular mayinclude its plural counterpart and vice versa, unless expresslyindicated to the contrary.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example,reference to “a substituent” encompasses a single substituent as well astwo or more substituents, and the like.

As used herein, “for example,” “for instance,” “such as,” or “including”are meant to introduce examples that further clarify more generalsubject matter. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, such examples areprovided only as an aid for understanding embodiments illustrated in thepresent disclosure and are not meant to be limiting in any fashion. Nordo these phrases indicate any kind of preference for the disclosedembodiment.

As used herein, “toilet” is meant to refer to any device or system forreceiving excreta, including urinals.

As used herein, the term “bowl” refers to the portion of a toilet thatis designed to receive excreta.

As used herein, the term “base” refers to the portion of the toiletbelow and around the bowl supporting it.

As used herein, the term “user” refers to any individual who interactswith the toilet and deposits excreta therein.

As used herein, the term “excreta” refers to any substance released fromthe body of a user including urine, feces, menstrual discharge, andanything contained or excreted therewith.

As used herein, the term “manifold” is intended to have a relativelybroad meaning, referring to a device with multiple conduits and valvesto controllably distribute fluids, namely water, liquid sample and air.

As used herein, the term “test chamber” is meant to refer broadly to anyspace adapted to receive a sample for testing, receive any othersubstances used in a test, and apparatus for conducting a test,including any flow channel for a fluid being tested or used for testing.

As used herein, the term “sensor” is meant to refer to any device fordetecting and/or measuring a property of a person or substanceregardless of how that property is detected or measured, including theabsence of a target molecule or characteristic.

As used herein, a “fluidic circuit” is meant to refer to the purposefulcontrol of the flow of a fluid. Often, this is accomplished throughphysical structures that direct the fluid flow. Sometimes, a fluidiccircuit does not include moving parts.

As used herein, a “fluidic chip” is meant to refer to a physical devicethat houses a fluidic circuit. Often, a fluidic chip facilitates thefluid connection of the fluidic circuit to a body of fluid.

As used herein, the term “microfluidics” is meant to refer to themanipulation of fluids that are contained to small scale, typicallysub-millimeter channels. The “micro” used with this term and others indescribing this invention is not intended to set a maximum or a minimumsize for the channels or volumes.

As used herein, the term “microfluidic chip” is meant to refer to is aset of channels, typically less than 1 mm², that are etched, machined,3D printed, or molded into a microchip. The micro-channels are used tomanipulate microfluidic flows into, within, and out of the microfluidicchip. A microfluidic chip may include features or channels that are notmicro-sized in addition to at least one component, function, or featurethat is micro-sized.

As used herein, the term “microfluidic chamber” is meant to refer to atest chamber adapted to receive microfluidic flows and/or a test chamberon a microfluidic chip.

As used herein, the term “lab-on-chip” is meant to refer to a devicethat integrates one or more laboratory functions or tests on a singleintegrated fluidic circuit. Lab-on-a-chip devices are a subset ofmicroelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and are sometimes called “micrototal analysis systems” (μTAS).

As used herein, the term “data connection” and similar terms are meantto refer to any wired or wireless means of transmitting analog ordigital data and a data connection may refer to a connection within atoilet system or with devices outside the toilet.

Exemplary Embodiments

The present disclosure relates to analytical toilets (may also bereferred to as an “analytical toilet” or a “health and wellness” toilet)with analytical tools to perform scientific tests on excreta samples toidentify potential health and wellness indicators. More particularly, itrelates to the use of modular testing devices with standardizedmechanical connection and interfaces providing, as appropriate forparticular tests, electrical power, data connection, fluid inlets, andfluid outlets.

In accordance with the present disclosure, an analytical toilet thatincludes an infrastructure for multiple health and wellness analysistools is provided. This provides a platform for the development of newanalytical tools by interested scientists and companies. Newly developedtests and diagnostic tools may be readily adapted for use in a systemhaving a consistent tool interface.

In various exemplary embodiments, the analytical toilet provides a fluidprocessing manifold that collects and routes samples from the toiletbowl to various scientific test devices and waste handling portalsthroughout the device. In a preferred embodiment, the manifold isdigitally controlled. A digitally controlled manifold may include analogcomponent or circuits.

In various exemplary embodiments, the medical toilet provides multiplefluid sources via a manifold system. The manifold is adapted to connectto a plurality of analytic test devices adapted to receive fluids fromthe manifold. The manifold is designed to selectively provide a varietyof different fluid flows to the analytical test device. These fluids mayinclude, among others, excreta samples, buffer solutions, reagents,water, cleaners, biomarkers, dilution solutions, calibration solutions,and air. These fluids may be provided at different pressures andtemperatures. The manifold and analytical test device are also adaptedto include a fluid drain from the analytical test devices.

In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold system provides astandardized interface for analytical test devices to connect andreceive all common supplies (e.g., excreta samples, flush water), data,and power. Common supplies may be supplied from within (e.g., reagents,cleaners) or without (e.g., water) the toilet system. The analyticaltest devices may be designed to receive some or all of the standardizedflows. The analytical test devices may also include storage cells fortheir own unique supplies (e.g., test reagent).

In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold is adapted to directfluids from one or more sources to one or more analytical test devices.The manifold and analytical test devices are designed such thatanalytical test devices can be attached to and detached from themanifold making them interchangeable based on the needs of the user.Different analytical test devices are designed to utilize different testmethods and to test excreta samples for different constituents.

In various exemplary embodiment, the smart toilet provides an electricalpower connection and a data connection for the analytical test device.In a preferred embodiment, the electrical power and data connections usethe same circuit. In various exemplary embodiments, the toilet isprovided with pneumatic and/or hydraulic power to accommodate theanalytical test devices.

In various exemplary embodiments, the smart toilet platform performsvarious functions necessary to prepare samples for examination. Thesefunctions include, but are not limited to, liquidizing fecal samples,diluting or concentrating samples, large particle filtration, sampleagitation, and adding reagents. Miniaturized mechanical emulsificationchambers show promise for repeatable and sanitary stool preparation.Stool samples may also be liquefied using acoustic energy and/orpressurized water jets.

In various exemplary embodiments, the smart toilet also provides, amongother things, fluid transport, precise fluid metering, fluid valving,fluid mixing, separation, amplification, storage and release, heating offluid, cooling of fluid, and incubation. The smart toilet also isequipped to provide cleansers, sanitizers, rinsing, and flushing of allparts of the system to prevent cross-contamination of samples. In someembodiments, the system produces electrolyzed water for cleaning.

In various exemplary embodiments, one layer of the fluidic manifold isdedicated to macro-scale mixing of fluids. Sample, diluents, andreagents are available as inputs to the mixers. The mixing chamber isplaced in series with all other scientific test devices, allowing bulkmixed sample to be routed to anywhere from one to all stations (i.e.,analytical test device interfaces) for analysis. Mixing may also occurin an analytical test device.

In various exemplary embodiments, samples are filtered for largeparticulates at the fluid ingress ports of the manifold. The fluidmanifold uses a network of horizontal and vertical channels along withsimple valves to route prepared stool samples to one of severalscientific test devices located on the platform.

In various exemplary embodiments, samples are filtered for particulateslarger than a particular threshold, defined appropriately for theapplication. In some embodiments, multiple filters may be usedsequentially or be available in parallel. One layer of the manifoldstack may be dedicated as an interchangeable filter module, or a moremonolithic purpose-build manifold may be the design of choice. The fluidmanifold uses a network of horizontal and vertical channels along withsimple valves to route filtered urine or stool samples to one of severalscientific test devices located on the platform. The filter mechanism isplaced in series with all other scientific test devices, allowingfiltered sample to be routed to anywhere from one to all stations (i.e.,analytical test device interfaces) for analysis. Filtering may alsooccur in an analytical test device.

In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold is constructed usingadditive layers, and different layers can be customized for particularapplications. Standard ports and layouts are used for interfacing withexternal components, such as pressure sources and flow sensors. Ingeneral, characteristic channel volumes at the first layers of themanifold stack are on the order of milliliters. At the final level ofthe manifold stack is the microfluidic science device, which willinterface simultaneously with multiple microfluidic chips usingstandardized layout and pressure seals.

In various exemplary embodiments, the analytic test devices are designedto perform one or more of a variety of laboratory tests in a toiletenvironment. Any test that could be performed in a medical or laboratorysetting may be implemented in an analytical test device in a toilet.These tests may include measuring pulse, blood pressure, bloodoxygenation, electrocardiography, body temperature, body weight, excretacontent, excreta weight, excreta volume, excreta temperature, excretadensity, excreta flow rate, and other health and wellness indicators.

In various exemplary embodiments, the system is adapted to work with avariety of actuation technologies that may be used in the analyticaltest devices. The system provides electronic and fluidic interconnectsfor various actuator technologies and supports OEM equipment. In apreferred embodiment, the system is adapted to work with actuatormodules that can be attached to the sample delivery manifold andcontrolled by a central processor. The system platform supports an inletand outlet for the pressure transducer that interfaces with the fluidicmanifold, and electronic or pneumatic connections where required. Thesystem supports a variety of macro- and microfluidic actuationtechnologies including, but not limited to, pneumatic driven, mechanicalpumps (e.g., peristaltic, diaphragm), on-chip check-valve actuators(e.g., piezo-driven or magnetic), electroosmotic driven flow, vacuumpumps, and capillary or gravity driven flow (i.e., with open channelsand vents).

Now referring to FIGS. 1-3, a first embodiment of an analytical toilet100 is shown. FIG. 1 shows the toilet seat, bowl, plumbing, and otherinternal components covered by a shroud 130 that includes a rear cover131 and lid 132. FIG. 2 shows the toilet with a rear cover 131 of theshroud 130 open showing part of the interior of the toilet. In thisembodiment, this portion of the toilet 100 includes fluid containers 140that hold supplies used for some of the functions of the analyticaltoilet 100 (e.g., analytical tests, cleaning, disinfecting, samplepreparation, etc.). FIG. 3 shows the toilet 100 with a side panel of theshroud 130 removed to allow showing the interior components of thetoilet 100, including the bowl 110, base 120, and manifold 200.

Now referring to FIG. 4, the interior of the toilet of FIGS. 1-3 isshown. The internal components of the toilet 100 are supported by a base120. The bowl 110 is supported by one or more load cells 111. A manifold200 is located below the bowl 110. The manifold 200 comprises aplurality of fluid paths. These fluid paths allow the manifold 200 tomove fluids between the bowl 110, fluid containers 140, outside sources(e.g., municipal water supplies), other sources (e.g., air or waterelectrolyzing unit), analytical test devices 300, and the toilet outlet.The manifold 200 also provides electrical power and data connections tothe analytical test devices 300. The manifold 200 can also directly passfluids and/or solids from the bowl 110 to the toilet outlet. Themanifold 200 provides multiple fluidic circuits including transportchannels, valves, and pumps.

Now referring to FIG. 5, a first embodiment of a modular analytical testdevice 300 attached to an exemplary embodiment of a manifold 200 isshown. The manifold 200 is adapted to provide receptacles 210 withstandardized connection interfaces for multiple analytical test devices300. The manifold 200 is shown here with multiple fluid sources 201 forthe analytical test device 300. In various embodiments, the manifold 200may include receptacles 210 for more than one type of analytical testdevice 300 (e.g., different sizes, fluid supply needs, etc.).

In various exemplary embodiment, the analytical test device 300 includesmultiple inlets in fluid communication with the manifold 200. Theselected fluid flows are directed into a test chamber with one or moresensors 311 (flow channels internal to the analytical test device notshown in FIG. 5). The sensors 311 may be one or more of electrochemicalsensors, spectrometers, chromatography, charge-coupled device (CCD), ormetal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) includingcomplementary metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor(CMOSFET). The analytic test device 300 also includes at least oneoutlet 302 or drain in fluid communication with the manifold 200.

Now referring to FIG. 6, a second embodiment of a modular analyticaltest device 300 is shown. The analytical test device 300 includesmultiple fluid inlets 301, test chamber 310, and at least one fluidoutlet 302. The analytic test device 300 includes a test chamber 310that received fluid flows and contains at least one array of sensors311.

Now referring to FIG. 7, a third embodiment of a modular analytical testdevice 300 is shown. The analytical test device 300 includes multiplefluid inlets 301, test chamber 310, and at least one fluid outlet 302.This embodiment of an analytical test device 300 includes a storage cell312, also in fluid communication with the test chamber 310. Theanalytical test device 300 may also include a pump to move fluid (e.g.,test reagent) from the cell 312 to the test chamber 310. The analytictest device 300 also includes a camera adjacent to the test chamber 310to monitor the contents of the test chamber 310. In various embodiments,the test chamber 310 is used to mix an excreta sample with a reagentthat will cause a color change if a target analyte is present in theexcreta sample. The camera is adapted to detect the color change. Invarious exemplary embodiments, the camera may be used to observe othercharacteristics or changes to the sample in the test chamber 310 (e.g.,urine settling).

In various exemplary embodiments, the analytic test device 300 includesone or more ports for a microfluidic chip (“MFC”). The microfluidicinterfaces 220 are designed to receive a MFC and provide it with allnecessary power, data, and fluidic connections. Microfluidics are usedto transport samples and other fluids to and from the MFC. In apreferred embodiment, the MFC includes a test chamber with a lab-on-chip(“LoC”) (also known as test-on-chip). The LoC may be designed to performone or more laboratory tests. The fluidic circuits and sensors may be assmall as micro or nano sized.

Now referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary embodiment of an analytical testdevice 300 adapted for use with a microfluidic chip (“MFC”) is shown.The MFC analytic test device 400 includes a test chamber 410 with a labon chip 411. The manifold 200 includes a plurality of slots 220 or otheropenings for placement of a MFC analytical test device 400. An interface420 with multiple ports 421, which act as fluid inlets or outlets forthe test chamber 410, to provide connections and/or supplies for the MFCanalytic test device 400. Protrusions 422 encircle the ports 421 toprovide a point of positive contact for the sealing gasket 430,minimizing dead volume. Pores 431 in the gasket 430 select or blockpossible interactions with the MFC analytic test device 400.

In various exemplary embodiments, the backplate interface 420 ismachined or molded with multiple microfluidic pores 421 for ingress offluids or for removal of fluids. The interface 420 can be used with avariety of MFC analytic test device 400 testing modules. The ports 421are preferably sealed by placing a gasket 430 between the MFC analytictest device 400 and backplate 420. The gasket 430 may be designed withpores 431 to selectively allow fluid flow through selected ports 421 andblock potential flow through others depending on the MFC analytic testdevice 400 design. The gasket 430 may have alignment holes or features,with matching structures in the interface 420 or MFC analytic testdevice 400, to facilitate aligning the sheet of material to the pores431. For example, the gasket 430 may fit snugly in a recess in theinterface 420, or alignment pins in the interface 420 may match holespatterned in the gasket 430 by the same process used to create the pores431. The gasket 430 may have corrugations, or variations in thickness,or be composed of multiple layers of different materials designed toreduce distortions propagating from one point of contact to another, inorder to improve the alignment of the gasket 430 to the pores 431 duringinstallation or when the system is pressurized.

In various exemplary embodiments, the gasket 430 may function as a sealfor otherwise open channels in the MFC analytic test device 400,permitting pressurized flow in those channels. The gasket 430, typicallyan electrical insulator, may have electrical contacts built into thetop, bottom, or intermediate layers of material, or embedded within thegasket 430 material. The gasket 430 may have electrical contacts builtto cause a voltage potential to exist in the fluid. The gasket 430 mayhave electrical contacts built on the surface to come into contact withthe fluid or gas and provide a potential to create electrochemicalinteractions. The gasket 430 may have electrical contacts built on thesurface to come into contact with the fluid or gas and measure theelectrical potential or ionic current.

In various exemplary embodiments, when the MFC analytic test device 400is mechanically clamped to the plate 420 with sufficient pressure, thegasket 230 material creates a high-pressure seal between the MFCanalytic test device 400 and the interface 420. Pores 431 in the gasket430 open a channel between the backplate 420 and the MFC analytic testdevice 400. The gasket 430 material may be optimized for theapplication, including selecting chemically inert material.Alternatively, each pore 431 may be circumscribed with an elastomerO-ring that provides a seal under pressure.

Now referring to FIG. 9, an exemplary embodiment of an MFC analytic testdevice 400 with an optical interface is shown. In some embodiments, alight source and light detector are connected to the test chamber 410 byfiber optic cables 412 and 413 are part of the test chamber 410 (e.g.,spectrometer). The MFC analytic test device 400 is attached to theinterface and held in place by a clamp plate. In an alternativeembodiment, the light source 412 may be placed in the clamp plate 414 todeliver light to a standardized location normal to the MFC analytic testdevice 400.

In various exemplary embodiments, the light detector may include variousmechanisms for reducing reflections, such as covering the detector withan anti-reflection coating, film. The light detector may be an opticalwaveguide or other photonic sink.

In various exemplary embodiments, the MFC analytic test device 400 issecured to the interface 420 by a clamp 414 In a preferred embodiment,the clamp 414 serves a dual purpose as a back-side interface formicrofluidic ports 421 in the reverse side of the MFC analytic testdevice 400. Microchannels machined into the clamp 414 in standardizedlocations may be included in the clamp design.

In various exemplary embodiments, the microfluidic fixtures, includingscrew-in connectors, may interface with micro-tubing to provide aconnection elsewhere in the system, or back to the same chip. Themicro-tubing may provide chip-to-chip connections.

In various exemplary embodiments, the clamp may serve as a housing ormounting point for a mirror that directs laser light through the MFCanalytic test device 400. Some implementations may use asemi-transparent mirror that allows several MFC analytic test devices400 arranged in a line to use the same laser beam to interact with MFCanalytic test device 400 components. The platform microfluidicinterface/manifold provides ports intended for this purpose.

Now referring to FIG. 10, an exemplary embodiment of an MFC analytictest device 400 with a set of electrical contacts is shown. Electricalpads in a standardized location are made available for genericelectrical operations, such as providing high and low voltage contacts,control signals, and ground pins. Corresponding pads are also located onthe MFC analytic test device 400.

Now referring to FIG. 11, an alternate configuration is shown for alarger MFC analytic test device 400 with additional standardized areasdesignated for fluidic, electrical, or optical interconnects. Thisembodiment shows a designated viewing area, where a light sourceilluminates the MFC analytic test device 400 from below, and an imagedetector (possibly including a microscope or other magnifier) examinesthe output. Other embodiments may include an electronically controlledshutter that selectively blocks the light or selects a pinhole/orificesize for the light. The light source may be visible, UV, or otherwavelength range of light emissions. The light source may be wide-bandor narrow band.

In various exemplary embodiments, the MFC analytical test device 400 isdesigned to use very small quantities of reagent. In various exemplaryembodiments, reagents are dispensed using technology similar to thatused in inkjet printers to dispense ink. In some embodiments, anelectrical current is applied piezoelectric crystal causing its shape orsize to change forcing a droplet of reagent to be ejected through anozzle. In some embodiments, an electrical current is applied to aheating element (i.e., resistor) causing reagent to be heated into atiny gas bubble increasing pressure in the reagent vessel forcing adroplet of reagent to be ejected.

In various exemplary embodiments, the toilet fluidic manifold providesrouting. Interconnecting levels of channels allows routing from one portto all others. Each channel may include a pressure dampener tofacilitate constant pressure pumping of all active channelssimultaneously, while time-multiplexing pump-driven inflow. Fluids maybe supplied by the manifold in continuous or segmented flow (e.g.,separated by air bubbles). The sensors may collect data continuouslyduring exposure or may take discrete data points. Once the testingparameters are reached and reliable data is collected that is within apre-determined range, the data may then be statistically evaluated. Themean, median, and standard deviation of the data may be carried out.Additionally, regression analysis may be carried out on the data of asingle user. Regression analysis may also be used on two or more usersto understand how the data of a single user compares to a population ofusers of the analytical toilet.

In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold has reaction chambersbuilt in for general purpose mixing operations. Each chamber has amacro-sized channel through which the manifold delivers a urine sample(filling the reaction chamber), and the chamber has a micro-sizedchannel. Pumps located internal or external to the manifold drive fluidinto the reaction chamber, and into the micro-sized channel. A valve atthe output of the macro-channel, and possibly at the output of themicro-channel, controls fluid direction as it exits the reactionchamber.

Microfluidic applications require support infrastructure for samplepreparation, sample delivery, consumable storage, consumable delivery orreplenishment, and waste extraction. In various exemplary embodiments,the manifold includes integrated support for differential pressureapplications, pneumatic operations, sample and additive reservoirs,sample accumulators, external pumps, pneumatic pressure sources, activepump pressure (e.g., peristaltic, check-valve actuators,electro-osmotic, electrophoretic), acoustic or vibrational energy, andlight-interaction (e.g., spectrometer, colorimeter, laser, UV,magnification).

In various exemplary embodiments, the sensor to detect a particularanalyte is integrated into a planar substrate with the active portion ofthe sensor exposed. Example substrates may be glass, plastic, ceramic,metal, etc. The planar sensor may be affixed to the manifold asdescribed for the semiconductor embodiment.

In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold interface has a matrix ofports, possibly laid out in a regular grid. These ports may be activatedor closed via an external support manifold. Routing is fullyprogrammable.

In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold directs one or morefluids to the analytical test device 300 or MFC analytical test device400 to cleanse the devices. These may include cleaning solutions,disinfectants, and flushing fluids. In various exemplary embodiments,the manifold directs hot water or steam to clean sample, reagents, etc.from the devices. In various exemplary embodiments, the toilet systemsusing oxygenated water, ozonated water, electrolyzed water, which may begenerated on an as-needed basis by the toilet system (this may beinternal or external to the toilet).

In various exemplary embodiments, waste from the MFCs is managed basedon its characteristics and associated legal requirements. Waste that canbe safely disposed is discharged into the sewer line. Waste that can berendered chemically inert (e.g., heat treatment, vaporization,neutralization) is processed and discharged. Waste that cannot bedischarged or treated in the toilet system is stored, and sequestered ifnecessary, for removal and appropriate handling.

In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold creates sequestered zonesfor each of these waste categories and ensures that all products areproperly handled. In various exemplary embodiments, the manifold directsflushing water and/or cleansing fluids to clean the manifold and MFC. Insome embodiments, high-pressure fluids are used for cleaning. In such anembodiment, the high-pressure fluids are not used in the MFC. In someembodiments, the MFC is removed from the backplate interface and allports are part of the high-pressure cleansing and/or rinse.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a design for a seat 500 thatcan be easily added/removed from a toilet, seat topper, seat lifter,etc. is provided. This allows for easier installation of a new seat 500to accommodate upgraded seats and/or seat sensors. Referring to FIG. 12,a powered quick disconnect mechanism is shown. The seat 500 is removedby pressing in on the spring-loaded button 504. This moves thespring-loaded axle 505 out of the seat to allow the seat 500 to beremoved. The electrical connector 506 automatically connects anddisconnects with physical connection. The electrical connector 506comprises a ring connector that maintains electrical connectionthroughout the seat's range of motion. This provides for electricalpower and/or data connections to sensors in the seat.

In various exemplary embodiments, the sensor includes an activecomponent (i.e., sensor or chip component in physical contact with thefluid sample) that is contacted by the fluid sample supplied by themanifold. In various exemplary embodiments, the interface between themanifold and the MFC comprises cavities at the connections to deliverand remove fluids that are shaped to mate with the surface of the MFCdirectly, possibly in combination with a sealing gasket or with acompliant sealing material built into the manifold directly. The sensorchip may be held in place by a mechanical fastener with sufficientuniform pressure to form a fluidic seal to the manifold.

In various exemplary embodiments, the medical toilet includes additionalhealth and wellness sensors that may be located in a variety oflocation. In some embodiments, the seat may contain health and wellnesssensors to measure pulse, blood pressure, blood oxygenation,electrocardiography, body temperature, body weight, excreta content,excreta weight, excreta volume, excreta temperature, excreta density,excreta flow rate, and other health and wellness indicators. In apreferred embodiment, the seat is attached to the toilet via a poweredquick disconnect system that allows the seat to be interchangeable. Thisfacilitates installing custom seats to include user-specific tests basedon known health conditions. It also facilitates installing upgradedseats as sensor technology improves.

In various exemplary embodiments, the lid may contain health andwellness sensors that interact with the user's back or that analyzegases in the bowl after the lid is closed.

In various exemplary embodiments, the medical toilet includes softwareand hardware controls that are pre-set so that any manufacturer canconfigure their devices (i.e., analytical test devices) to work in thesystem. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes a software stackthat allows for data channels to transfer data from the sensors in themedical toilet to cloud data systems. The software and hardware controlsand/or software stack may be stored in the medical toilet or remotely.This would allow scientists to place sensors, reagents, etc. in thesystem to obtain data for their research. It also allows user data to beindividually processed, analyzed, and delivered to the user, or theirhealth care provider, digitally (e.g., on a phone, tablet, or computerapplication). The seat may also contain sensors to measure fluid levelsin the toilet. This could include proximity sensors. Alternatively,tubes in fluid communication with the bowl water could be used todetermine changes to bowl fluids (e.g., volume, temperature, rate ofchanges, etc.).

All patents, published patent applications, and other publicationsreferred to herein are incorporated herein by reference. The inventionhas been described with reference to various specific and preferredembodiments and techniques. Nevertheless, it is understood that manyvariations and modifications may be made while remaining within thespirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An analytical toilet comprising: a bowl adaptedto receive excreta; one or more conduits for transporting a sample fromthe bowl; one or more fluid sources in fluid connection with the one ormore conduits; and one or more microfluidic chips, comprising: at leastone fluid inlet; at least one fluid outlet; and a sensor configured todetect at least one property of an excreta sample.
 2. The analyticaltoilet of claim 1 further comprising: an electrical connection to theone or more microfluidic chips; and a data connection to the one or moremicrofluidic chips.
 3. The analytical toilet of claim 1 wherein at leastone test chamber measures at least one of excreta content, excretatemperature, excreta density, and excreta color.
 4. The analyticaltoilet of claim 1 further comprising a manifold system having multipleflow paths and valves for providing fluids to the one or moremicrofluidic chips.
 5. The analytical toilet of claim 4 furthercomprising a gasket between the manifold and the one or moremicrofluidic chips.
 6. The analytical toilet of claim 1 furthercomprising one or more fluid supplies from outside sources or internalreservoirs.
 7. The analytical toilet of claim 6 further comprising atleast one sensor for detecting the level of fluid in the one or moreinternal reservoirs.
 8. The analytical toilet of claim 7 wherein the atleast one sensor comprises one or more of a weight sensor, pressuresensor, or proximity sensor.
 9. The analytical toilet of claim 6 whereinthe fluid supplies comprise one or more of excreta, buffer solutions,chemical reagents, air, biomarkers, dilution solutions, calibrationsolutions, fragrances, sterilizers, flushing fluid, rinsing fluid,cleansing fluids, electrolyzed water, air, and water.
 10. The analyticaltoilet of claim 6 wherein the fluid is ejected from the internalreservoir by applying electrical current to a piezoelectric crystal. 11.The analytical toilet of claim 6 wherein the fluid is ejected from theinternal reservoir by applying electrical current to a heating element.12. The analytical toilet of claim 1 wherein the microfluidic chipcomprises one or more of an MOSFET, CCD, bioFET, an electrochemicalcell, spectrometry, laser excitation, ultraviolet excitation,electrophoresis, amperometry, colorimetric analysis, and chromatography.13. The analytical toilet of claim 1 further comprising at least onestandardized interface with the one or more microfluidic chips.
 14. Theanalytical toilet of claim 1 further comprising a processor adapted toreceive signals from at least one of the microfluidic chips.
 15. Theanalytical toilet of claim 10 wherein the processor manages the dataconnection and the power supply for the microfluidic chips needing them.16. The analytical toilet of claim 1 further comprising a dataconnection from the toilet that transmits data to a health careprovider.
 17. The analytical toilet of claim 1 further comprising a dataconnection from the toilet that transmits data to a data display for theuser.
 18. The analytical toilet of claim 1 wherein the manifold furthercomprises a relatively large channel for direct disposal of excreta inthe bowl.
 19. The analytical toilet of claim 1 wherein the manifolddistributes water for cleaning at least a portion of the bowl.
 20. Theanalytical toilet of claim 1 wherein at least one analytical test deviceis in fluid communication with the bowl.